Microsoft will put utilities to find and remove the XCP system in the next update of its anti-spyware software.

The same utilities will also go in to the December update for Microsoft's malicious software removal tool.

The row about XCP blew up following an expose by Windows programming expert Mark Russinovich.

It led to widespread criticism of Song BMG and several class action lawsuits have been started against the record label over XCP. The stealthy software is intended to stop illegal copies being made of Sony CDs.